In my last column I asked readers to submit beauty questions for skincare expert Judith Rubinstein. Continue reading for her answers to your questions on topics such as anti-aging, acne and dermatologist treatments.

Q. When it comes to moisturizers, are the more expensive department store brands really worth the money? Or are the ones they sell in the pharmacy just as good?

A. There are many variables that go into making a quality and effective skin care product. Science and medicine have found their way into skin care and there are many active ingredients such as peptides, growth factors, stem cells, anti-oxidant etc. that are being used in skin care products. The efficacy of the product will depend on the concentration of the active ingredient used. However, using higher concentrations makes the product more expensive to make. Unfortunately, in many of the products on the market, including the ones in the department stores the active ingredients are often only “sprinkled” and not used at the effective concentration. 

 So in an effort to find a product that works, you need to educate yourself about skin care starting with your own skin.  Know your skin. Skin changes with age. What works for one skin type or age will not work for another. Know what the new and effective ingredients are. Ask questions of the sales help, and always ask for written information and even better contact the maker of the products. Look for a good aesthetician who can analyze your skin type and even recommend a product. 

   Q. Why do I get still get acne? I’m 56.

 A. Acne is not only for the “young”.  Adult acne is more common than people realize. Some of the causes are similar to teenage acne. Hormone changes and imbalance, stress, poor diet, i.e. sugar, dairy, lack of mineral, vitamins, sleep. Some sufferers think that using harsh cleanser will help, only to find that it exacerbates the condition and will dry out your skin. Others will resort to heavy use of AHA acids and retinol that can result in making the skin oversensitive. Address the causes to treat the problem.

 Q. The million $$$ question for me is… What skin care can I use that will help keep my makeup on? I put on a full face but every morning by 11 am it’s all off! And primers don’t work…

A. Do you touch your face all the time and therefore remove the makeup without realizing it? Try to keep your hands off your face. Or do you perspire a lot? Have you tried changing your makeup?

Q.    I am 34 years old and am still using the same cleanser that I’ve been using since high school- my skin is definitely aging and I need new products but with the amount of products and options out there I can’t decide which to use. 

A. First treat your body, i.e. diet, hormones etc. Then you may want to see a good aesthetician to analyze your skin and give you a basic facial. Microdermabrasion can be performed by an aesthetician. Make sure you don’t overdo it by getting it done too frequently. There are laser treatments for various skin conditions. Keep in mind that doctors love to do aggressive procedures so make sure you have a reliable recommendation before you see a dermatologist. Once you are in your mid thirties you need to start looking for more serious anti-aging  treatment products.  The products that you get should address your skin issues. Is your skin getting dry? If using a cream is not enough you may need to use a serum under the cream. Are you beginning to see wrinkles?  If yes, there are products with different peptides and other actives that will help.  But make sure those ingredients are concentrated. You also need a good eye cream to protect the delicate area of the eye.  And always treat your skin gently – don’t use harsh products. Use a cleanser in the evening; in the morning water and a toner are enough.

Q.   I’m 27 years old and I tend to get acne from hydrating and anti age creams. So I just skip, or use it only on low risk areas of the face. Help?

A. At age 27 you don’t need any real anti aging or very active creams. All you need is a gentle cleanser, toner and good eye cream and a light moisturizer.

Judith Rubinstein is the founder and president of Neo Plus Skin Care Technology Inc. Neo Plus® Skin Care Technology Inc. of Switzerland offers scientifically advanced professional grade anti-aging skin care products using highly concentrated bio-engineered ingredients, peptides, growth factors, stem cells, anti oxidants and anti-inflammatories specifically designed to retard ageing, correct skin trauma, and naturally nourish and revitalize the skin. Products sold through physicians, medical spas and spas.

Website www.neoplusskincare.com email neoplus@neoplusskincare.com

(This article originally appeared in The Jewish Press)